Geochemical evaluation of groundwater quality in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Abstract

Hydrogeochemical investigations were carried out in Newcastle, in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa to identify the major geochemical processes that control groundwater chemistry. 31 samples were collected and analysed for Magnesium (Mg2+), Calcium (Ca2+), Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), Chloride (Cl-), Sulfate (SO42-), Bicarbonate (HCO3-), Nitrate (NO3-), Fluoride (F-), pH, TDS and EC. Classical hydro-chemical methods; facies analysis and major ion analysis were used to further understand the composition controlling processes. It was inferred from the hydro-chemical facies, major ion scatter plots that the major process affecting the groundwater chemistry in the area is rock-water interaction. The ionic concentration is due to silicate weathering, carbonate weathering and ion exchange processes.

Evaluation of Groundwater Suitability for Domestic and Irrigational Purposes in Newcastle, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa

“…The groundwater geochemistry of the study area is dominated the following water types Ca-Mg-HCO3, Na-HCO3, Ca-Na-SO4-HCO3 (Mixed water type) and Na-Cl [12]. The Ca-Mg-HCO3 facies mainly found in 18 of the boreholes in the study area, these boreholes are mainly distributed in the Vryheid Fm and in the contact zones between the Karoo dolerite with the Volksrust Fm and with the Vryheid Fm.…”